Carl Steven Berghman, better known to the racing world as “Bugsy Stevens” passed away on Monday, May 20, 2024, at the age of 90. The Rehoboth, Massachusetts native is considered by many to be one of the greatest Modified drivers of all time, as well as one of the most popular drivers of all time.

His “Bugsy Stevens” persona began when he was in the Air Force in the late 50s. He had to use a fake name to compete in races at San Antonio’s Pan American Speedway in order to not be caught by his commanding officers.

Stevens is one of the many drivers who helped shape the legacy of the famous “Ole Blue” No. 3 car owned by Boehler Racing Enterprises, one of the most famous Modifieds of all time. Stevens and the Boehlers won three straight NASCAR Modified championships in 1967, 1968, and 1969, as well as numerous track championships throughout New England at tracks such as Stafford Motor Speedway, Thompson Speedway, Norwood Arena, and Vermont’s Catamount Stadium. 

Stevens is currently fifth on the all-time wins list at Connecticut’s Stafford Motor Speedway with 72 victories, though at the time of his retirement he was the all-time leader.

After Stevens’ passing, NASCAR released the following statement on Monday evening:

“Bugsy Stevens was one of the greatest to race a Modified, winning three consecutive NASCAR National Modified Championships, and countless championships across tracks in the Northeast including Thompson Speedway Motorsports Park, Stafford Motor Speedway, and Seekonk Speedway. A fan favorite who drew crowds to his races, he was one of the legendary drivers who piloted the iconic “Ole Blue” No. 3 car that still races today on the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour. Our thoughts are with Bugsy’s family and friends as we honor his life.”